Comparing two universities can be a daunting task, but it’s an essential part of the decision-making process for prospective students and their families. In this article, we will compare Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and San Diego State University (SDSU) by examining various factors such as costs, admissions, academics, diversity, campus life, and outcomes. The goal is to provide you with the necessary information to make an informed decision about which university is the best fit for you.
FAU Overview
Florida Atlantic University (FAU) is a public research university located in Boca Raton, Florida, with satellite campuses in Dania Beach, Davie, Fort Lauderdale, Jupiter, and Port St. Lucie. Founded in 1961, FAU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with a strong emphasis on research, engineering, and the sciences.
FAU Costs & Tuition
In-state tuition for FAU is approximately $4,879 per year, while out-of-state tuition is about $17,324. Room and board costs an estimated $11,044 per year, and miscellaneous fees can add up to $2,000. It’s essential to factor in financial aid opportunities, as many FAU students receive scholarships and grants to offset the costs.
FAU Admissions
FAU has a moderately selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 63%. The average SAT scores for admitted students are between 1060 and 1230, while the average ACT scores range from 22 to 27. FAU also considers high school GPA and class rank as part of its holistic admissions review.
FAU Degrees Offered
Florida Atlantic University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various fields, including business, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts. With over 180 degree programs available, students can choose from numerous options to pursue their academic interests.
FAU Academics
FAU has a student-faculty ratio of 21:1, providing students with greater access to professors and a more personalized learning experience. With a focus on research, engineering, and the sciences, FAU offers a robust academic environment for students looking to excel in their chosen field.
FAU Diversity
FAU is committed to promoting diversity and inclusiveness on campus, with students from various ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The university has a diverse student body, with a significant Hispanic and African American population.
FAU Students
The total student population at FAU is approximately 30,000, with about 25,000 undergraduate students and 5,000 graduate students. The university has a lively campus life, with over 300 student organizations, clubs, and activities for students to get involved in.
FAU Campus
FAU’s main campus in Boca Raton is situated on 850 acres of land, with beautiful landscaping and state-of-the-art facilities. The campus offers a variety of amenities, including a recreation center, swimming pool, and numerous dining options.
FAU Alumni
Notable FAU alumni include Herb Score, a former Major League Baseball player and broadcaster; Megan May, an aerospace engineer at NASA; and Carole Crist, a former First Lady of Florida.
FAU Rankings
FAU is ranked #297-#389 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report and is categorized as an R2 (High Research Activity) institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
FAU Outcomes
FAU has a graduation rate of 52%, with a high percentage of alumni finding employment or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for FAU graduates is around $44,000.
SDSU Overview
San Diego State University (SDSU) is a public research university located in San Diego, California. Established in 1897, SDSU offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, with a strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
SDSU Costs & Tuition
In-state tuition for SDSU is approximately $7,510 per year, while out-of-state tuition is about $19,390. Room and board costs an estimated $14,072 per year, and miscellaneous fees can add up to $2,000. As with FAU, financial aid opportunities are available to offset these costs.
SDSU Admissions
SDSU has a moderately selective admissions process, with an acceptance rate of 34%. The average SAT scores for admitted students are between 1110 and 1310, while the average ACT scores range from 22 to 29. SDSU also considers high school GPA and class rank as part of its holistic admissions review.
SDSU Degrees Offered
San Diego State University offers more than 190 undergraduate and graduate degrees across various fields, including business, engineering, health sciences, and liberal arts. With so many options available, students can find a program that aligns with their academic interests.
SDSU Academics
SDSU has a student-faculty ratio of 27:1, providing a collaborative and engaging learning environment for students. With a strong emphasis on research and community engagement, SDSU prepares students for success in their chosen field.
SDSU Diversity
SDSU has a diverse and inclusive student body, with students of various ethnic, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The university is committed to fostering a sense of belonging and community among its diverse student population.
SDSU Students
The total student population at SDSU is approximately 35,000, with about 30,000 undergraduate students and 5,000 graduate students. SDSU offers a vibrant campus life, with over 300 student organizations, clubs, and activities for students to engage in.
SDSU Campus
SDSU’s campus is located on 283 acres of land in San Diego, California, offering state-of-the-art facilities and a beautiful, scenic environment. The campus provides numerous amenities, including a recreation center, swimming pool, and various dining options.
SDSU Alumni
Notable SDSU alumni include actress Marion Ross, filmmaker Gregory Nava, and astronaut Ellen Ochoa.
SDSU Rankings
SDSU is ranked #143 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report and is categorized as an R2 (High Research Activity) institution by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
SDSU Outcomes
SDSU has a graduation rate of 74%, with a high percentage of alumni finding employment or pursuing further education within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for SDSU graduates is around $49,000.
FAU vs SDSU Cost Comparison
In-state tuition at FAU is significantly lower than at SDSU, with annual costs of $4,879 and $7,510, respectively. Similarly, out-of-state tuition is more affordable at FAU, with annual costs of $17,324 compared to $19,390 at SDSU. However, room and board costs are higher at SDSU, with an estimated annual cost of $14,072 compared to $11,044 at FAU. Overall, FAU presents a more cost-effective option for both in-state and out-of-state students.
FAU vs SDSU Admissions Difficulty
Both FAU and SDSU have moderately selective admissions processes, with acceptance rates of 63% and 34%, respectively. In terms of standardized testing, SDSU has slightly higher average SAT and ACT scores for admitted students, indicating a more competitive applicant pool.
FAU vs SDSU Academic Difficulty
While both universities emphasize research and offer a range of degree programs, SDSU has a slightly higher student-faculty ratio at 27:1 compared to FAU’s 21:1. This may indicate a more competitive academic environment at SDSU, as students may have less direct access to professors.
FAU vs SDSU Outcome Comparison
SDSU has a higher graduation rate of 74% compared to FAU’s 52%. Additionally, SDSU graduates tend to earn higher starting salaries, with an average of $49,000 compared to $44,000 for FAU graduates. These outcomes suggest that SDSU may provide students with a greater return on their educational investment.
